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Possible Bidding War for This Petrochemical Company

One of the biggest gainers in an overall down market today was petrochemical producer, TPC Group Inc. (Nasdaq: TPCG) , after it received a second M&A offer in less than a month and a half. Innospec (Nasdaq: IOSP) reached out to TPC Group with an acquisition proposition involving an all-cash deal for $44-$46 per share. Upon hearing this news, investors quickly caught on, driving the stock up 12.8% today from its Friday close of $40.67. Shares are now trading at the high end of the range provided by Innospec.

The previous offer from an investment fund backed by First Reserve Corporation and SK Capital Partners was initiated at the end of August, but it was only for $40 per share. Based on language in the reply from TPC management, they have the right to back out if a Superior Proposal comes to the table from another suitor. Based on the higher valuation and estimated synergies between TPC Group and Innospec, a producer of specialty chemicals used in fuel additives and consumer fragrances, the board of TPC Group has decided to move forward with its due diligence research.

If a deal is reached, TPC Group would be acquired by Innospec for an estimated $700 million.

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Taylor is an Associate GM in our Fool International operations. Prior to that he covered all things Energy + Materials as an analyst. Over the years, he has built an investing skill set to rely on when evaluating companies inside and out. While at the Fool, he has made appearances on CNBC and Fox Business. In addition, he completed his MBA at the University of Maryland and will sit for the Level II CFA Exam.